Fitter/Tester Review

My role is an EDU & E-machine fitter tester, my main role is to complete installations and running of test beds as part of powertrain test operations. I also have the opportunity to write tests and perform troubleshooting alongside my engineering team. Daily tasks include stopping tests, performing a daily check on the Unit Under Test, then starting the test again. Communicating with my engineering team and customer on relevant information. Complete data logging and night letters keeping the team up to date on how the test is progressing.

Learnt a range of manual skills when isntalling and reworking Units. In terms of testing I have learnt how to use and monitor our test software and am currently learning how to create tests using such software. I am also developing skills in our data measurement software used alongside the test to monitor temperatures, voltages etc. New software is always being added/ updated so there is always something more to learn.

The apprenticeship programme lacked in some ways, I enjoyed some areas I worked in but others I couldn't say the same. It all depends on if there is work available, which shift you are put on and who your mentor is. Depending on these three variables it could make a good area bad due to your mentor or a great mentor could make a area lacking work good and they are very keen to teach.

IT was organised but was restricting, I moved area each month meaning by the time I was getting comfortable I was placed into a brand new area to start from scratch again. There are defiantly things to improve on but I was happy to have a apprentice team for part of my time at plant.

As I mentioned we had an apprentice team giving us direct access to people we could go to for support. In some ways this was great, though some of our trainers were Ex-forces or foreign and lacked in support when things needed a softer more compassionate touch.

A decent amount, some of the teachers lacked in support given. That being said there were some great teachers there who really went above and beyond which made up for others lack of support.

For the job role I am doing, i believe the Level 3 qualification lacks. Fortunately I have been put in a role where technicians are required over fitter/testers meaning there is the possibility for a HNC which would give me a better understanding and more confidence in the role.

There are though I don't really know how to take part in them. I have recently had an email requesting to apply for early careers events but apart from that I know other things happen but am unaware on how to participate. That being said the fitter/tester role is more workshop based and we get little time on a PC and have no laptop, which adds difficulty in finding events to take part in.

Yes

Realistically the money is great, the work isn't to straining like other places I have worked and most the time I enjoy my job.

Be prepared to re-learn GCSE level Maths and English for the tests when applying which for older people is a pain. Have a solid knowledge before applying to a role and be prepared to face new challenges and gain more skills and qualifications.